South west London, including Kingston and Putney, were among the worst-hit areas.
Motorists complained that journeys of just a few miles took up to two hours and in some cases were impossible to complete.

There were reports of tempers fraying around Earls Court when a wedding convoy realised their route was completely blocked by temporary road blocks.

One unnamed race steward in Putney High Street admitted the road closures had been ‘chaotic’ with staff left in the dark over when diversions would be lifted.

Not exactly a walk in the park: Normally peaceful Richmond Park was on the cyclists' route

He said: ‘This is supposed to be a test event and it shows there is a lot more work to be done.

‘I am from Lincoln and we have cycle events all the time that pass without any bother.

‘It’s been a long day with a lot of angry motorists.’

The situation was made worse by gas roadworks at the junction of the A3 and the south circular, already one of London’s worst bottlenecks.

Drivers also vented their frustrations on Twitter and Facebook.

Sharon Burke-Mukungu, from London. tweeted: “Many roads closed in London today for a cycling event.

‘Please have such events in countryside in future.

‘Traffic been shocking all day.’

Support: Spectators in Headley, Surrey, were out in force. About 1,400 roads in London and Surrey were shut for most of the day, resulting in huge traffic build-ups

Despite the congestion, organisers hailed the event a success – but said lessons had been learned.

Debbie Jevans, London 2012 Director of Sport, said: ‘I want to thank London and Surrey residents for changing their normal Sunday to accommodate this race and to the tens of thousands who lined the route to support the athletes.’

Leon Daniels, Transport for London’s managing director for surface transport, added: ‘A huge amount of planning and delivery went into making this event happen.

‘The vast majority of people appeared to heed our advice to plan their travel and used tube and rail services, while others chose to enjoy viewing the race in their local area.’

Sealed with a kiss: Cavendish celebrates his win with girlfriend Peta Todd

The race passed through six London boroughs, four Royal Parks and out into Surrey before returning to central London and The Mall where Briton Mark Cavendish was first across the finishing line.

The event follows the route to be followed by the Olympic road cycling races, which take place over five days next summer, from Saturday, July 28, until Wednesday August 1.

Free to watch, it will include separate races for men and women plus time trials.